My Mac is Like ERP Software

This week I grew overly frustrated with my Windows PC. After years of hearing people rave about Mac computers, I walked into the
Apple store. I have always found myself captivated by virtually every one of the Mac vs. Windows commercials, yet I never really thought I’d buy one. Well I did it. I purchased a MacBook Pro that night and I brought my new baby home. Excitement grew as I made the journey into the house with the laptop, my husband, and my kids in tow. They all knew they should leave me and my new prize alone, as I was excited to bust open my new computer and take it for a spin across the World Wide Web. I turned it on, then I sat and I stared. I was perplexed. Granted, I had been up since five AM and I had taken a very long road trip for work and I was tired. I was also overwhelmed by the differences between Mac and Windows. What was I thinking I asked myself? Did I just waste a ton of money for nothing? Does my new baby really have four heads instead of a brain the size of Einstein? I told myself to be calm and to focus. I told myself to put my new baby away for the night. The next day I was busy with work and I did not get a chance to open my new Mac until later that evening. Although tired, I thought I would try again. The initial confusion I felt the night before was greatly diminished and I felt a lot more comfortable. I reminded myself that my new Mac is like my ERP software. The same theory that holds true for TGI’s new customers and users of Enterprise 21 works for my new Mac. It was like moving from an old Dos-based software program to a modern GUI-based
ERP system. In the world of technology, things can come easy. In fact, some software can be very easy to use and easily figured out without little or no training. At our recent users’ conference, some of our new customers told me they thought our Enterprise 21 software was very user friendly and very easy to use. They were, of course, talking about standard tasks and not setting up a full production facility on day one of using the system and without any training. I believe Enterprise 21 is easy to use and easy to learn, although I also believe the more advance features, like MRP, take some time to learn and use in the most optimal manner. My Mac is no different. My Mac is powerful and it will take some time to utilize it as intended and as designed. Soon I will fly through screens just as I do Enterprise 21 or my Windows PC. I just need to give myself time. Before I jump to the incorrect conclusion that my Mac purchase was a mistake, I need to take a minute to possibly watch a Mac tutorial or review the standard set up instructions. I might read through a help file or two. I might even call technical support, although those who know me well, will tell you that will most likely never happen. Regardless of how or when I seek help, I will do so and I will fall in love with my Mac and wonder how on earth I ever completed my work day without it. This is the very same advice I would give users of our ERP software. Actually, I’d give this advice to users of almost any ERP software. I believe in the power of Enterprise 21 and the positive impact it can have on a business. I have blogged about if for a years and I will continue to do so for as long as I’m allowed to blog. And although I’ve barely broken the surface of my new Mac’s capabilities, I know I will be as passionate about my Mac as I am about Enterprise 21. The best part of the last few days and my long winded story is our Enterprise 21 ERP software can operate with Mac clients, so my two passions will be able to coexist together in perfect harmony.

Thanks for the comments. My culture shock only lasted a few days. I realized it was far more easier than I expected. And of course, I never did read any help files or watch any videos. I am very bad with seeking help.

You are right when comparing the two environments. While my Mac is a work computer, I did have the liberty to ""put it away"" and digest it over a few days. A new ERP user is pretty much thrown into the mix and needs to learn the new application quickly.

Regardless, I am a firm believer that ongoing use and training is the answer for migrating from Windows to Mac or an old Dos software application to a new GUI ERP system. Even if I struggle seeking help for myself!